On a website focused on health it might seem a weird tangent to write something about derma fillers. However as someone passionate about health and wellness, it is with sadness, and some concern that I see so many women seemingly sliding down the slippery slope of injectables into their faces. Please understand me, when I say that I am an advocate for the individual’s freedom of action as long as it doesn’t affect others negatively. (AKA Utilitarianism)
But, in this instance their choices may have repercussions not only on themselves, but on their family and friends who care for them alongside others who are influenced by their decisions. (There is no lower age limit to fillers). Yes, in most instances of this sort of beauty treatment, one can only hope it goes well. But my fear lies in the long-term implications of actions which are meant to support the supposed improvement of physical form and yet may have implications many years from now.
All opinions in this piece are mine, and mine alone and should be taken as such. I am not a medic, instead someone who has a medical condition and has therefore in her life had at times no option as to whether she would have this pill, injection, or treatment. Most if not all of these came with side effects and none of these were ones, I would wish on anyone. And yet all of these were at one time or other given to me to keep me alive. These experiences undoubtedly have shaped my opinions towards derma fillers and this article I hope will give you at least a starting point in terms of information to form your own decisions.
(Note: I am NOT SAYING that people who get these procedures done LOOK BAD – this is an article about the risks of such actions and in the same way I would tell you if you were about to eat poison and I hope you would tell me the same, that is why I am sharing this article. In response to someone who told me to mind my own business.)
In a society inundated with beauty standards propelled by media portrayals of perfect women, an increasing number of individuals are gravitating towards dermal fillers to maintain a youthful appearance.
Currently in the UK, there is no licensing regime for non-surgical cosmetic procedures such as Botox and fillers. 83% of fillers are administered by people with no medical training. As such that leaves those who wish to purchase such products at risk of a selection of possible disasters some of which could either have permanent implications or by endangering life.
However, within an industry largely lacking in regulation, (worth over £200 billion) the quest for eternal youth carries substantial risks. As I discovered today, enthusiasts of these procedures often exhibit reluctance when confronted with reminders of these perils.
What are derma fillers?
Dermal fillers are substances that are injected into the skin to add volume, fill in wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. There are various types of dermal fillers, each with its own properties and uses. Here are some common types of dermal fillers:
- Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers: Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in the skin that helps retain moisture and add volume. HA fillers are among the most popular and versatile dermal fillers. Examples include:
- Juvederm (e.g., Juvederm Ultra, Juvederm Voluma, Juvederm Volbella, Juvederm Vollure)
- Restylane (e.g., Restylane-L, Restylane Lyft, Restylane Silk, Restylane Refyne, Restylane Defyne)
- Belotero Balance
- Revanesse Versa
- Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) Fillers: Calcium hydroxylapatite is a mineral-like compound found in bones. CaHA fillers stimulate collagen production and provide long-lasting results. Example:
- Radiesse
- Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA) Fillers: Poly-L-lactic acid is a synthetic biodegradable substance that helps stimulate collagen production, resulting in gradual and natural-looking volume restoration. Example:
- Sculptra
- Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) Fillers: Polymethyl methacrylate is a synthetic, non-biodegradable substance that provides semi-permanent to permanent results by stimulating collagen production. Example:
- Bellafill
- Autologous Fat Fillers: Autologous fat transfer involves using a person’s own fat, usually harvested from another area of the body, to fill in wrinkles and enhance volume. This is a natural and long-lasting filler option.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): PRP is derived from a person’s own blood and is used to stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture and tone. It is often combined with other treatments for optimal results.
- Polycaprolactone (PCL) Fillers: Polycaprolactone is a biodegradable synthetic substance that helps stimulate collagen and elastin production. Example:
- Ellanse
These fillers have different characteristics, durations, and suitability for various areas of the face. The choice of filler depends on factors such as the desired effect, area of treatment, longevity, and the individual’s specific needs and preferences. It’s essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate filler for your goals and concerns.
Where are derma fillers used on the body?
Dermal fillers can be used in various areas of the face to enhance features, restore volume, and improve overall facial aesthetics. Here are some common areas where dermal fillers are commonly used:
Nasolabial Folds:
These are the lines that run from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth, often referred to as “smile lines” or “laugh lines.”
Marionette Lines:
These are lines that extend from the corners of the mouth down towards the jawline, creating a marionette-like appearance.
Cheeks:
Dermal fillers can be used to augment and enhance the cheeks, providing a more youthful and lifted appearance.
Tear Troughs:
The area under the eyes can be treated with fillers to reduce the appearance of hollows or dark circles, creating a rejuvenated look.
Lips:
Dermal fillers are commonly used to enhance lip volume, define the lip borders, and create a more symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing lip shape.
Chin:
Fillers can be used to reshape and enhance the chin, providing better proportion and contour to the lower face.
Jawline:
Fillers can help define and contour the jawline, giving a more structured and defined look.
Temporal Area:
The temples can lose volume with age, and fillers can restore fullness and create a smoother transition from the forehead to the rest of the face.
Brow Area:
Fillers can be used to lift and support the eyebrows, addressing mild to moderate brow sagging and enhancing the overall appearance of the eyes.
Forehead:
Fillers can be used to soften horizontal lines on the forehead and improve overall smoothness.
Bridge of the Nose:
Fillers can be used to reshape and enhance the nasal bridge, providing a non-surgical option for those seeking a more defined nose.
Scars and Depressions:
Dermal fillers can be used to improve the appearance of scars or depressions in the skin caused by acne or other factors.
What are the risks of derma fillers?
Dermal fillers, while generally considered safe when administered by qualified professionals, carry potential risks and dangers that individuals should be aware of before undergoing the procedure. Here are some of the top dangers associated with dermal fillers:
- Infection: Any injection carries a risk of infection at the injection site. Bacterial contamination can lead to redness, swelling, pain, and, in severe cases, systemic infections.
- Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to the ingredients in dermal fillers, resulting in allergic reactions that can range from mild irritation to severe symptoms like difficulty breathing and anaphylaxis.
- Migration or Movement of Filler: Dermal fillers can shift from the injection site, causing uneven or lumpy results. Migration can also lead to unintended effects or complications.
- Nodule Formation: Small lumps or nodules may form under the skin due to filler accumulation. These can be visible or palpable and may require further treatments to address.
- Vascular Complications: In rare cases, filler material can unintentionally enter blood vessels, potentially blocking blood flow and causing tissue damage or necrosis. In extreme cases, this can lead to blindness.
- Tissue Necrosis: Restricted blood supply to the surrounding tissues can cause tissue death (necrosis), leading to pain, discoloration, and the need for corrective surgical intervention.
- Granulomas: Granulomas are small, granular masses that can form around the filler material, causing localized inflammation and potentially requiring treatment to reduce their appearance.
- Overfilling or Uneven Results: Overuse or improper injection techniques can lead to an unnatural or uneven appearance, which can be challenging to correct.
- Bruising and Swelling: Bruising and swelling at the injection site are common side effects and usually resolve within a few days, but they can be bothersome for some individuals.
- Hyperpigmentation or Hypopigmentation: Changes in skin color, either darkening (hyperpigmentation) or lightening (hypopigmentation), may occur at the injection site.
- Inflammatory Reactions: Fillers may induce chronic inflammation in some individuals, causing persistent swelling, redness, or discomfort.
- Scarring: In rare cases, the injection process itself can cause scarring, especially if the skin is overly sensitive or healing is impaired.
- Long-Term Complications: The long-term effects of dermal fillers are still not fully understood, especially regarding the potential accumulation of filler material over time.
Please before you make the decision to have derma fillers weigh up the pros and cons of the short- and long-term implications of your decision. If you decide to go ahead do a considerable amount of research into the seller providing such services and if at all possible, talk to past clients. On arrival if you have any doubts – leave. Gut instinct is almost always right, and finally, good luck.
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Articles about Derma Fillers when the have gone wrong
This is just a few of the many, many news articles about derma fillers that have gone wrong.
The Suns Campaign – for new laws to be introduced.
Lip fillers: Call for tighter regulation after botched treatments
Lockdown lip fillers gone wrong: ‘My lips went black’
‘They’ve lost the plot’: leading cosmetic doctor says under-30s are overdoing Botox and fillers
There Should Be Tougher Laws On Fillers – I Wrecked My Lips With Them